Liverpool step up interest in Hellas Verona midfielder Jorginho

Liverpool have intensified their interest in Hellas Verona midfielder Jorginho as Brendan Rodgers looks to lighten the load on captain Steven Gerrard.

The Reds skipper will miss the busy Christmas period after picking up a hamstring injury and, despite the prognosis being good, Rodgers is keen not to rush him back.

The club have been tracking exciting midfielder Jorginho since the start of the season – and Liverpool are now looking to do business, in the hope he can hit the ground running when the transfer window re-opens.